All of us at Friends of Rio Vista have been very concerned to learn that a riding accident took place in the park in early May. Fortunately, the horse wasn’t hurt, and the rider wasn’t seriously injured. Both are seasoned trail users; the rider’s skills prevented a much worse outcome for both of them and for pedestrians on the path.
Unfortunately, current conditions at Rio Vista contributed to this dangerous experience. Recent changes to the trail network have eliminated alternative trails that would allow visitors to pass each other safely and to avoid hazards like reactive behavior (or off-leash approaches) of dogs. No right-of-way signs direct trail users to yield to equestrians. Objects like brush and rocks that now line trails create tripping hazards.
You can help to protect all visitors from harm by following this safety etiquette:
- Don’t let your dog approach a horse and rider, even on leash.
- If you’re in a group on the trail and a rider approaches, ask your whole group to step to one side of the trail so that the horse won’t have to pass between two rows of unfamiliar people.
- Don’t try to hide from the horse; that is likely to make the horse more nervous.
- Move slowly around horses and avoid sudden movements. Don’t rush toward the horse and rider.
- When a horse is coming your way, stop, step off the trail, and speak to the horse and rider. These actions will help to calm the horse, who may otherwise see you as a potential predator or other threat.
- If you’re on a bike, speak up or use your bell as soon as you see a rider on the trail. Let the rider know that you’re there. Dismount and pull off to the side of the trail to allow the horse and rider to pass.
- Please — never allow your dog to roam off leash in the park.
Friends of Rio Vista continues to work with other stakeholders and with the Tucson Parks and Recreation Commission to advocate for modifications that would make the park’s trails safer — not only for human, equine, and canine visitors but also for wildlife and native vegetation. Instead of protecting habitat, the current limitations on the trail system will lead to further development of rogue trails and resultant damage to soils, plants, and wildlife retreats like burrows, nests, and cover.
We know how much you love Rio Vista Natural Resource Park. We know that we can count on you to do your part in keeping it natural — and safe — for everyone.